The Emergency Food Assistance Program

The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP) was initiated in 1981 to reduce inventories and storage costs of surplus USDA foods through distribution to needy households. While some surplus food is still distributed through TEFAP, Congress (since 1989) has appropriated funds to purchase additional USDA foods for households. South Dakota uses TEFAP USDA foods in the soup kitchens and food banks.

TEFAP was not designed to serve as a primary food source. It was designed as an outlet for surplus USDA foods, and it has effectively achieved that goal.

The nutritional needs of TEFAP households can best be met through other food assistance programs such as WIC and the SNAP or Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF). In South Dakota, the USDA donated food for distribution is sent to food banks, food pantries and soup kitchens.

Recipient eligibility to receive USDA foods from food pantries is determined by completion of an intake application form provided by the food pantry indicating household and financial circumstances at or below 185% poverty level, name, number in household, and address. In South Dakota a family qualifing for reduced price meals qualifies them for this program. The chart giving the household sizes and income eligibility guidelines is found by clicking the red Child and Adult Nutrition Services tab.

If your food pantry isn't listed and is interested in being on The Emergency Food Assistance Program, please have the authorized representative contact the South Dakota Department of Educaiton for an application.